In the US, there are many states that pride themselves in rodeos and have chosen to name it their official state sport. The intent is to display the power of man over beast. They are thought to be cultural, with the cruelty aspect being ignored or denied. Although many rodeo organizations now have regulations on the treatment of the animals on and off the rodeo grounds, there are still those who ignore the regulations.
Most rodeos hold standard events: steer wrestling, steer roping, tie-down and team roping, saddle and bareback horse riding, bull riding, and barrel racing. All of these involve animals involuntarily exposing themselves and allowing humans to control them in a biased environment. Everything in the rodeo is set up for man to dominate in dangerous situations that they have created themselves. Many of people still utilize tools to torment the animals. Naturally, when an animal is in pain, it acts defensively. Electric rods, bucking straps, and heel and strap spurs are all used to aggravate the animals to make them look more fearsome and wild, and make the cowboy look like a hero.
The events that are held in rodeos can be traced back to the 1700s, when the Spanish horsemen worked the Western farmsteads. However, after over 3 centuries of technology, today we have other ways to work our lands that should have replaced the practices. Instead, these practices are now used purely for greed and entertainment. Despite the fact that we live in a more educated and modern world, there are still those who insist rodeos are a necessity.
The rodeos revolve around animals' reaction to fear and pain- undoubtedly animal cruelty. Find your state's laws regarding rodeos here. If your state supports and holds rodeos, speak up! Support culture without cruelty. There are several different ways you can take action in your community to ending animal cruelty. Need help? Contact GentleLamb.
Photo by animalsaustralia.org & Perry Backus
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